Zamalek Eyes a South African Test: Abdel Raouf Maps a Winning Path Against Kaizer Chiefs

Match Preview

Ahmed Abdel Raouf, head coach of Zamalek, said the upcoming CAF Confederation Cup group stage match against Kaizer Chiefs in South Africa will be difficult, but the team is chasing a win to secure three points.

During the press conference ahead of the game, Abdel Raouf stressed that the Zamalek delegation has earned respect since arriving in South Africa, recognizing the strong challenge posed by the opposition. "We represent Zamalek, our club is big, and we are playing to win and claim the three points," he said.

He added that starting the tournament with a victory is crucial and that they aim for a second win in the next game, noting that the two following home fixtures against the Egyptian club Al-Masry would shape their group standing and make the outcome of tomorrow’s match particularly decisive.

Addressing Key Absences

Regarding injuries, Abdel Raouf acknowledged the impact of losing Abdullah El-Saeed and Nabil Emad Donja but expressed faith in the available alternatives, insisting that Zamalek has high-quality players ready to fill the gaps.

He reflected on recent hardships after the domestic Super Cup, saying opportunities were not converted consistently against Zesco United, but the focus remains on securing victory and three points tonight.

Rivalry Respect and Future Outlook

Abdel Raouf stressed respect for Kaizer Chiefs, praising their organization and playing style, while highlighting the important role of the home crowd in a big-match atmosphere.

Asked about his future, he answered that he does not dwell on what comes next: every game is an opportunity to advance the club’s legacy, and any success belongs first to Zamalek before it favors him personally.

Omar Jaber’s Perspective

Team captain Omar Jaber expressed happiness to be in South Africa and emphasized the importance of victory: "We want the three points and know Kaizer Chiefs is a big team, but so is Zamalek. We will give our all to win." He added that the squad understands South African football well after recent encounters, and they prepared seriously to secure the three points.

Technical Preparations

Abdel Raouf conducted a video tactical briefing on Friday to outline the match’s technical aspects, strengths, and weaknesses of the rival, providing players with clear role-specific instructions ahead of a final warm-up drill with administrative support present.

Tonight, Zamalek will wear their all-white kit, while Kaizer Chiefs will don their yellow and black; a note on the goalkeepers’ attire was also shared with the officials before kickoff. The teams’ match schedule confirmed the venue at Peter Mokaba Stadium, with Zamalek having won their opening game 1-0 against Zesco United.

Squad List (Zamalek)

Goalkeepers: Mohamed Awwad, Mohamed Sobhi, Mahmoud El-Shenawy

Defence: Omar Jaber, Baron Oshing, Mahmoud Hamdi "El-Wenash", Hossam Abdel Majeed, Mohamed Ismail, Ahmed Fattouh, Mahmoud Bentayg

Midfield: Mohamed Shahat, Mahmoud Ghaddad, Saif Jafar, Nasser Maher, Abdel Hamid Maali, Ahmed Shreef, Adam Kaid, Chiko Banza, Juan Perezira

Attack: Ahdy El-Debagh, Saif Al-Jaziri, Amr Nasser